Kitchen Manager Salary in Nashville, TN
Kitchen Managers in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $29.04 per hour, which translates to about $1,161.60 per week, $5,033.60 per month, and $60,403.20 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Nashville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive and expanding job market for professionals managing kitchen operations in the area.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Nashville can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,493.33 | $53,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Nashville Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily managerial and behind the scenes. Their compensation is typically limited to their salary or hourly wage without additional tip income.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of around $29.04 per hour, translating to about $60,403.20 per year.
When compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in Nashville earn roughly the same with a similar hourly rate of $29.04 and an annual salary of approximately $60,403.20.
This parity suggests a competitive market for Kitchen Managers in Nashville, aligning with national compensation trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Kitchen Managers
Looking at nearby locations, Kitchen Managers can expect slightly varied salaries depending on the area:
- Hendersonville: $29.29 per hour
- Franklin: $28.77 per hour
Hendersonville offers a marginally higher hourly wage compared to Franklin, providing Kitchen Managers options for potentially better pay close to Nashville.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Nashville?
Several factors can influence how much a Kitchen Manager earns in Nashville:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: Those with extensive experience managing diverse kitchen teams and exceeding operational goals typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often offer better wages compared to casual dining or fast food venues.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and certifications in food safety or management increase employability and salary potential.
- Size and Reputation of the Business: Larger kitchens with higher volume or prestigious establishments usually pay more due to increased responsibilities.
- Working Hours and Flexibility: Managers willing to work nights, weekends, or holidays may earn additional compensation or bonuses.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Nashville
Becoming a Kitchen Manager in Nashville involves several key steps to prepare and qualify for the role.
First, consider enrolling in culinary or hospitality programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Nashville State Community College, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Another excellent option is the Hospitality Management Program at Middle Tennessee State University, which provides education in hospitality operations including food and beverage management essential for aspiring Kitchen Managers.
Obtaining recognized certifications is also crucial. The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is nationally recognized and focuses on food safety and sanitation, which is often a requirement for Kitchen Management positions. Additionally, the Certified Food Manager (CFM) Certification is mandated by the Tennessee Department of Health for food service managers to ensure compliance with state health codes.
Gaining hands-on experience is equally important. Starting in roles such as line cook, kitchen supervisor, or assistant manager can provide the practical skills and leadership abilities necessary to advance to Kitchen Manager.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Nashville
Nashville’s thriving food scene offers opportunities with some notable employers recruiting Kitchen Managers, including:
- Snooze an AM Eatery
- Puttshack
- Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Nashville Work At
Kitchen Managers in Nashville can be found working in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer robust day-to-day operations and tend to provide stable salaries.
- Fast Casual Chains: Often focus on efficiency and turnover, with competitive but sometimes moderate pay scales.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Kitchens here may offer higher compensation recognizing the complexity and quality standards required.
- Catering Services and Hotels: These can vary in pay but often provide additional benefits and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in salary differences, with upscale and high-volume operations typically offering the best pay for Kitchen Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Kitchen Managers
If you're exploring career options similar to Kitchen Manager, here are a few related roles worth considering:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Head Chef positions, which share overlap in responsibilities, skills, and compensation ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Nashville
Kitchen Managers should be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements pertinent to employment in Tennessee.
- Refer to the official website of the State of Tennessee for information on state regulations, labor laws, and employment resources.
- For federal labor laws and standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.